Postnatal Depression Treatment, Rehabilitation & Recovery Services

For some new mums, postnatal depression can be isolating, distressing and terrifying. The condition usually occurs between one week and a few months after childbirth and displays many of the same symptoms of clinical depression, or in some cases severe psychosis.

Many sufferers of postnatal depression find themselves feeling fatigued, constantly sad, anxious, panicked and full of guilt. It can have a negative affect on relationships, particularly if the condition isn't understood by the partner, or the sufferer.

A combination of factors can trigger postnatal depression, and it is not simply due to hormonal changes. It can also lead to further episodes of depression and long-term problems if left untreated.

However, like other forms of depression, this condition is treatable.

At The Causeway Retreat near London we can help you combat the symptoms of post-natal depression and use proven treatments to work through your condition. We are the only clinic in the world with its own private island, so you can escape from the pressures of daily life and recover in a discreet, serene and therapeutic environment.

Types and Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression is divided into three main categories. They all share similar symptoms, but differ in the severity and length of the condition.

Baby blues:

• The mildest form of postnatal depression and generally doesn't require treatment,
• Tends to last from a few days to a couple of weeks after pregnancy,
• Up to two thirds of mothers experience baby blues (it is perfectly normal - particularly for first time mums),
• Symptoms include irritability, fatigue and tearfulness.

Classic postnatal depression:

• Affects around 10-15% of all new mothers,
• Usually begins a few weeks after childbirth, but can develop months down the line,
• Shares many of the same symptoms as depression, such as persistent sad feelings, tearfulness, low self esteem, anxiety and listlessness,
• If symptoms persist postnatal depression treatment should be sought out.

Postnatal psychosis:

• The rarest but most serious form of the condition (found in around 0.1% of cases),
• Symptoms range from suicidal thoughts to hallucinations and delusions,
• More likely to occur in women with a history of mental illness,
• Postnatal depression treatment should be sought as soon as possible.

It's important to note the difference between the "baby blues" and more serious forms of depression. General symptoms of postnatal depression to look out for include:

• Persistent sadness,
• Feeling on the brink of tears much of the time,
• Low motivation and fatigue,
• Feelings of anxiety and panic,
• Feelings of guilt about your new baby,
• Poor concentration,
• Feeling a lack of control,
• Loneliness and feelings of rejection,
• Erratic sleep patterns,
• Back pains, headaches and stomach pains.

Treating postnatal depression at The Causeway Retreat

At The Causeway Retreat near London we offer targeted, evidence-based postnatal depression support and treatment. The relaxed and therapeutic setting is conducive to healing and recovery, sheltered from the pressures of the outside world.

Our leading psychiatric experts can help you overcome your condition with individual or group therapy, including cognitive behaviour therapy and counselling sessions. We can offer advice about your medication options while breastfeeding and help you develop coping mechanisms you can use to avoid panic attacks and anxiety. Our psychiatric team are also able to deal with severe cases of post natal psychosis.

The Causeway Retreat is private, luxurious and, above all, discreet. Take the next step towards arranging your postnatal depression treatment by getting in touch with us.